His style is closer to German Romanticism than the calm Dutch school. He used dramatic lighting and thick brushwork to convey movement. His works in the Solis Prints collection, such as the studies of cow heads and forest scenes, demonstrate an interest in form and texture. He often worked on paper with chalk and ink. These materials allowed him to explore the structural qualities of his subjects. This approach resulted in work that feels more spontaneous than the polished studio pieces of the mid-nineteenth century.

Modern collectors value Tavenraat for his unvarnished look at nature. His sketches and studies offer a glimpse into the creative process. These works suit contemporary interiors because they balance classical subject matter with a gestural sensibility. The monochromatic nature of his sketches, like those found in "Blad met koppen," provides a sophisticated aesthetic for minimalist or traditional settings. His ability to find character in a single animal study makes his art both accessible and interesting.